Stages of Puppy Development

Neonatal

The first 2 Weeks.

The puppy is dependent on its mother for survival. Its eyes and ears are closed, and it is sensitive to touch, taste and smell. At this stage puppies have limited ability to move, and their life revolves around eating and sleeping.

2 Week 3

Transitional

During this time the puppy develops fast. It rapidly progresses from total dependence to a degree of independence. Its eyes and ears open, it starts to crawl and is able to toilet by itself. First play and social interaction can be observed at this stage of development.

3

Socialisation

From 3 to 10/16Weeks

This period is the most critical for the formation of social relationships. The pup learns about its environment, interacts with dogs and humans and extends its knowledge of how to interact in different situations. Pups in this stage of life start to initiate play, learn to control biting through their relationships with littermates and other dogs and start showing prey killing behaviours.

4 10/16 Weeks until Sexual Maturity

5

Juvenile

The Puppy will have a fully developed basic learning capacity and apply its learned behaviours to its environment, learning consequences for its actions and what behaviours are appropriate in what situation. During this period its attention span is still short and motor skills are in development.

Maturity

Sexual Maturity until the Dog Settles

This is a very variable time frame and depending on the specific dog’s heritage and life journey. Generally, dogs mentally mature around the 4 Year mark. This is when they settle into their family environment, know their place and are less likely to challenge fair leadership.

Who is Hooked on Hounds?

Hooked on Hounds, is a Hawkesbury based Dog Training Business specialising in Working Dog Lessons and Obedience/Behavioural Work. While we are based on the outskirts of Sydney our passion lays within both the livestock and dog industry. This is why we made it our mission to give dog owners the opportunity to gain a better understanding of their herding breeds, as well as offer Obedience and Behavioural Consults for everyone in need of an improved partnership with their dog.